Everton's £35m pursuit of Galatasaray winger Yılmaz

Everton have been reported as ready to spend £35 million to secure Galatasaray winger Barış Alper Yılmaz (Yilmaz), with the Turkish club setting that price as their asking fee, according to sources. The 26‑year‑old has impressed with his versatility and goal contributions, making him a prime target for the Toffees this summer.

Everton view Yılmaz as a key addition to improve their wide areas, aiming to enhance attacking width during the upcoming season. The Toffees believe his pace and creativity can address the squad’s lack of depth on the flanks.

The club has already invested more than £60 million in three new signings – Merlin Rohl, Tyrique George and Hayden Hackney – during the current transfer window. Manager David Moyes says further reinforcement is needed to close the gap to the top seven and secure European football.

A winger remains a clear priority for Moyes, with other candidates such as Christian Norgaard from Arsenal and Alistair Johnston from Celtic also mentioned. Nevertheless, Yılmaz appears to be the most genuine target for the English side.

Yılmaz recorded 12 goals and 14 assists for Galatasaray last season and added a goal and an assist in Turkey’s World Cup campaign. Overall, he has amassed 37 goals and 36 assists in 205 appearances across Champions League and Europa League fixtures.

Turkey boss Yılmaz Vural said, “Galatasaray cannot find a player like Barış Alper for €30 million. He has played in five or six different positions and has been useful in every one of them.” The statement underscores the player’s versatility and value to his club.

Interest in Yılmaz extends beyond England, with Saudi Arabian clubs also circling the 26‑year‑old, a factor that could push the price higher. Other European clubs are also monitoring his progress, adding further competition for Everton.

If Everton commit £35 million, it would represent a substantial investment and could trigger a bidding war with Saudi interests, while Galatasaray would benefit from a sizeable fee for a player who has contributed heavily over 205 games. The club’s alternative remains England international Jack Grealish, though his wages could make that deal expensive, leaving the winger situation unresolved for now.

The transfer story was published by Reuters, written by Jamie Kemble, a Welsh journalist who later worked in PR and Spanish translation for Reach PCL and Iconic Group. The article appears on a football platform, highlighting the significance of the potential move within the sport.